Homebuyers rarely, if ever, think much about the title company and title insurance when buying a home. Chances are their real estate attorney, agent, or lender suggested a title company and they said, “Okay.”

Because title insurance rates are state regulated, all companies charge similar amounts. Price shopping isn’t a factor. Unless there’s a problem or issue, the title company stays in the background for buyers.

While the premiums may be the same, the level of service and expertise can be very different. Many homebuyers, both first timers and veterans, don’t realize that they can choose their own title insurance company. That choice can make a real difference, not just at settlement, but throughout the buying process.

What a Title Company Does

A title company plays a critical part in the real estate process: it is the only party dedicated to protecting the title to your new home. The title names you as the new owner, describes the property and its boundaries, and lists the lender if you have one.

The title insurance that the title company includes as part of its services protects you if the title—i.e., your ownership of the home—is challenged in any way. If an ex-spouse shows up months later and claims that he or she still owns the home, or a neighbor asserts that part of what you thought was your yard is theirs, the title company and title insurance protect you.

The title company also takes part in the actual settlement, managing and disbursing escrow funds in accordance with all applicable laws.

That’s what all title companies should be doing. Cornerstone, however, goes well beyond that. Here are three things you didn’t know Cornerstone can do when involved early in the buying process.

Cornerstone Advantage 1: Provide Cost Estimates Sooner

Cornerstone can provide closing cost estimates earlier than others. For example, while lenders give a general estimate and only include their fees, we detail all fees associated with the title and closing process, including title insurance, recording fees, and any other miscellaneous charges. Our breakdown can help buyers budget accurately and avoid many surprises. The difference lies in the specificity and timeliness of our information, ensuring buyers have a clearer picture of more potential costs well before closing.

Cornerstone Advantage 2: Uncover Potential Issues

We’ve uncovered a variety of issues during the initial research and clearance phases, to help buyers make more informed decisions or proactively mitigate issues earlier in the process, such as:

  • Title Defects. Common issues include undisclosed liens, unpaid property taxes, or conflicting wills. For example, we’ve found undisclosed liens from contractors, which allowed their resolution well before closing.
  • Boundary Disputes. Misunderstandings about property lines sometimes arise, such as discovering that a neighbor’s fence was on the prospective buyers’ property due to a discrepancy in the property survey. We’ve also found unrecorded or unclear easements that would affect property use. For instance, a shared driveway easement lacked proper documentation, which could have led to disputes.

Cornerstone Advantage 3: Recommend Vetted Referrals

With thousands of closings to our name, we’ve worked with real estate professionals of every type throughout New York. We can recommend other professionals with confidence because we know they meet our high standards and give excellent client service. We do not have business relationships with anyone we recommend; our only loyalty is to our clients.

Here’s why you can trust Cornerstone’s recommendations:

  • Professionalism. We ensure that all referred professionals are responsive, courteous, ethical, and have a solid industry reputation.
  • Central Role. By managing closing details, we naturally build relationships with various parties involved in transactions, allowing us to assess their performance effectively.
  • Past Performance. We evaluate professionals based on their track record in past transactions.
  • Client Feedback. We collect and review testimonials and feedback from clients who have used their services, ensuring high standards.

Homebuyers can trust Cornerstone’s referrals because we prioritize excellence and reliability. Our referrals are based on proven performance and client satisfaction.

To learn more about how Cornerstone can make the homebuying experience smoother, more enjoyable, and less stressful, please contact us no matter where you are in the buying process.